Apple looks set to introduce iPhone SDK next week

Invitations have been sent out for an event next week that superficially appears to be the launch of third-party application support for the iPhone.

The invitation shows a folded map with the text "iPhone Software Roadmap." On the map are three different road signs, the first with the text "Enterprise," the next saying "SDK," and the last "Software Update."

Although predicting Apple's next move from their creatively designed invitations can sometimes be tricky business, many are betting the crux of the presentation will have much to do with the promised SDK for the iPhone.

However, it also appears the Cupertino company is preparing to address enterprise issues for which some have criticized the device, as well as possibly talking about future software updates for the popular device.

A "town hall" style meeting will take place on March 6 at 10am Pacific time at its headquarters. In somewhat un-Apple fashion, the text does address some of the content of the presentation, saying "exciting new enterprise features" will be discussed.

"The surprise is that the company is positioning the release to enterprise initiatives," mused NPD's Ross Rubin. "Enterprise features? Perhaps some Exchange love?" added JupiterResearch's Michael Gartenberg.

Either way, Apple looks set to open up the iPhone to the outside. What remains to be seen is how the already-thriving underground third-party applications market embraces this official means of offering their products.